Digital Package Printing Well-Represented at Graph Expo 16
ORLANDO, Fla. — September 26, 2016 — Historically speaking, Graph Expo has been a show that focused heavily on the commercial and document printing segments of the industry, with only minimal equipment on display for package printers. But with packaging gaining steam as one of the strongest growth areas of the printing industry, expect that to change in 2016.
Several suppliers that have typically served the commercial segment are expected to feature new products and solutions for the packaging industry, especially as more commercial printers are seeking to add these capabilities. Xerox, Konica Minolta, EFI, Epson, HP, KBA, MGI and Xanté have all introduced digital packaging solutions over the past year or so and will be exhibiting at Graph Expo.
On the heels of Labelexpo Americas, which was held just two weeks ago in Chicago, don’t expect to see much equipment for the narrow-web market here in Orlando. However, there should be plenty of folding carton equipment on display, especially considering that this segment of the packaging industry is typically easier for commercial printers to enter, considering their familiarity with sheetfed presses. Additionally, if drupa 2016 is any indication, the corrugated market could be a hot topic, as several suppliers have unveiled single-pass, direct-to-board solutions this year.
Cory Francer is an Analyst with NAPCO Research, where he leads the team’s coverage of the dynamic and growing packaging market. Cory also is the former editor-in-chief of Packaging Impressions and is still an active contributor to its print magazines, blogs, and events. With a decade of experience as a professional journalist and editor, Cory brings an eye for storytelling to his packaging research, providing compelling insight into the industry's most pressing business issues. He is an active participant in many of the industry's associations and has played an essential role in the development of the annual Digital Packaging Summit. Cory can be reached at cfrancer@napco.com
